US Commerce Secretary Delays Nvidia Chip Export Controls for China Despite Trump's Approval

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has repeatedly delayed enforcing export controls on Nvidia chips bound for China, despite President Donald Trump approving action three times this year, according to a report citing senior officials. The delays have sparked concern among top administration officials. During a Situation Room meeting last week, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pressed Lutnick on why his department held back on restrictions, particularly for Megaspeed, a company at the center of a spy scandal. Lutnick reportedly agreed but then said he needed to check with the president, prompting frustration from colleagues who had seen this pattern before. The group later moved to the Oval Office, where Trump, backed by Elon Musk and other officials, said "Let's get it done." However, Lutnick reportedly proposed returning with options, and sources say enforcement still has not occurred. Trump has approved action in May, August, and November 5, with Lutnick resisting each time.